If you’re a fan of seafood, then you’ve likely indulged in the delectable dish of fried calamari at least once in your life. The crispy, tender rings of calamari served with a side of tangy marinara sauce are a favorite appetizer at many restaurants. But why settle for just any fried calamari when you can make your own ultimate version at home?
With this ultimate fried calamari recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of perfectly crispy calamari that will rival any restaurant’s version. The secret to achieving that irresistible crunch lies in the coating and the frying technique.
To start, you’ll need to prepare your calamari by cleaning and slicing it into rings. Make sure to pat the calamari dry with a paper towel to ensure that the breading sticks well. Next, you’ll want to create a flavorful coating for the calamari. You can use a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and various seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, and salt. This combination of ingredients will not only add flavor but also create a crispy texture when fried.
Once you’ve coated the calamari in the seasoned flour mixture, it’s time to fry. Heat a pot of oil to the appropriate temperature for frying (around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit) and carefully drop the calamari rings into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the calamari to steam instead of fry. Fry the calamari in batches, making sure to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
After a few minutes in the hot oil, your calamari should be beautifully golden and crispy. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the fried calamari hot with a squeeze of lemon and a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
With this ultimate fried calamari recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the crispy, tender rings of calamari anytime you want, right in the comfort of your own home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get frying – your taste buds will thank you!